Local Family Donates Over 3,000 Pounds of Squash to Food Banks

A local family has made a significant contribution to community food banks by donating over 3,325 pounds of squash and zucchini. Link Lingenfelter and Claire Audette, along with their daughters Solie and Luella, have been actively delivering their produce to food banks in Shaunavon, Swift Current, and Medicine Hat. Their effort aims to support those facing food insecurity in the region.

The couple operates a one-acre farm where they cultivate a diverse array of vegetables, including butternut squash, spaghetti squash, zucchini, and pumpkins. This year, favorable weather conditions, particularly rain in mid to late July 2023, led to an unexpectedly bountiful harvest of more than 15,000 pounds. Their seedlings were sourced from Shaunavon Greenhouse, and they proudly maintain an organic farming approach, avoiding pesticides and chemical fertilizers.

Claire Audette highlighted the importance of their agricultural efforts, stating, “With all this extra rain it exploded. We’ve always been a farming family… Coming back home after Covid we focused on starting our own family.” The couple initially planned to sell their produce at local markets, but quickly realized the extent of their harvest. They began reaching out to food banks, recognizing the pressing need for food assistance in their community.

The couple delivered their first major batch of produce to the Root Cellar Food and Wellness Hub in Medicine Hat, which plays a crucial role in distributing food to various centers across Alberta. According to them, the facility operates like a grocery store, providing a dignified shopping experience for those in need. Link noted the impact of rising grocery prices, stating, “It only takes one situation, maybe losing your job or a big car bill, to fall behind. We are so fortunate to have food banks to support people right now.”

The versatility of the squash they produce has also been a focal point for Claire. She explained that zucchini can be used in various dishes including baking, grilling, and soups. Butternut squash can be roasted or made into soup, while pumpkins serve multiple purposes from Halloween decorations to culinary delights. “Squash can be put in anything, and it takes on the flavors. It’s very healthy and can be a good substitution for carbs,” she added.

As the harvest season progresses, the family plans to continue their donations and will have produce available for sale into the fall and early winter. Their pumpkins are currently ripening in time for Halloween celebrations. Link emphasized the educational aspect of their farming journey, saying, “The girls love being out there, playing in the dirt. It’s important to learn where your food comes from. It’s a fun hobby and hard work but it is very rewarding.”

Reflecting on the experience, the couple feels fortunate to share their bounty with others in the community. “The rain was such a blessing this year, and we are so blessed that we can share with others,” Link concluded. Their commitment to both farming and community support illustrates the powerful impact of local agriculture on food security.